Question

Predict the number of stereoisomers in $C{H}_{2}OH(CHOH{)}_{4}CHO$?

• A. $16$
• B. $8$
• C. $4$
• D. $2$

Answer 1

The correct option is A $16$

Terminal groups are different. The number of asymmetric C atoms is four.

$HOC{H}_{2}CH\left(OH\right)CH\left(OH\right)CH\left(OH\right)CH\left(OH\right)CHO$

Therefore, the number of stereoisomers (optical isomers) is $2^n=2^4=16$.

(where $n$ is the number of asymmetrical $C$ atoms)